Waka is a traditional form of Japanese poetry that consists of 31 syllables, divided into five lines with a 5-7-5-7-7 syllable pattern. This poetic style has been used for centuries, often expressing themes of nature, love, and the changing seasons. Waka can be found in historical texts and is an important part of Japanese literature. The origins of waka date back to the 7th century, and it was commonly used by the Japanese imperial court and aristocrats. Over time, waka evolved into various sub-genres, including tanka, which is a modern form of waka that retains the same syllable structure. Today, waka continues to be appreciated for its beauty and emotional depth.